Auto Key Repair Near Me
It's impossible to predict when you'll lose your car keys. It's always at the worst possible moment.
You could contact your dealer and ask them to give you a new key, but they charge astronomical amounts of money. They may not even have the key you need in the inventory.
Lost Keys
A few years ago, misplacing or losing a car key was not a huge issue. Locksmiths were able to quickly and cheaply replace it. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced, so have their keys. Replacing remote car key repair is a significant expense. Based on the type of key you own, the process for regaining access to your vehicle can require several steps and cost hundreds of dollars, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD.
Car keys are lost due to a variety of reasons, but most of the time they occur when you're in a rush or distracted and don't check where you put your keys. This is why having a backup in an area that is secure is important, and why it's crucial to retrace your steps if you've lost them.
Take a look in your pocket, on the floor of the car (including the trunk) or at your office desk, or anywhere you were sitting. Look in your pockets, on the floor of your car (including the trunk) or your desk at work or wherever else you could have been sitting.
Also, consider whether you have given an extra key away to anyone. If yes, then contact them to find out whether they've found yours. Don't forget to look around your house, as keys are often hidden underneath couch cushions or atop mail stacks.
If you haven't found your keys then the next step is to figure out what kind of key you have, and who you should contact to change it. In some cases, you may have to go to the dealer to make a new key, particularly if yours has a transponder chip, or other technology that needs programming.
If yours is traditional locksmiths are able to make a replacement immediately. In most cases, however you'll need your vehicle's registration, title or other evidence of ownership to the dealership. You'll also need a duplicate of your photo ID as well as any other spare keys you may have.
Transponder Keys
It's almost certain that your car key is equipped with transponder. These chips are designed to stop car thefts by ensuring that only the owner can start the vehicle. They function by transmitting a signal via the key to the antenna ring that is located close to the ignition cylinder. The computer inside your car will examine the "password" transmitted by the key to a stored list of authorized codes, and if it matches the code the engine will light up.
Transponder keys are extremely useful, but they can also be problematic if they get lost or stolen. One reason is that they are extremely difficult to duplicate as they contain a unique microchip. Only an original transponder key that has already been programmed is able to duplicate the key. This can be accomplished by a professional locksmith the local dealership of the manufacturer, or a reputable auto shop.
Although it is possible to program a few transponder keys yourself, many people prefer hiring professionals to do the job. It is because the process is comprised of several steps and each vehicle's antitheft mechanism functions differently. The process is best completed by a professional can help to ensure that the new key is properly programmed and will function properly.
It is important to take care of your transponder key so that it continues to function properly. It's essential to keep it away from water and extreme temperatures, and avoid dropping it. If you accidentally drop your car key, it is best to replace it as quickly as possible by visiting a local dealer or a professional locksmith.
It's much easier to replace a key operated mechanically however, it is recommended to keep a spare transponder. This will save you the stress and cost of having your vehicle's computer system reprogrammed in the event that you lose the only working key. The reason for this is that the anti-theft system built in the majority of cars will require the original keys to be reprogrammed. This process can be extremely lengthy.
Key Fobs
It may seem impossible to think that your key fob could malfunction, but it's uncommon. Fobs contain batteries and circuits which are vulnerable to damage from many sources. Unexpected shocks, exposure to water or liquids and also sudden shocks could cause them to stop functioning.
Fortunately, many of the issues that may be caused by key fobs are relatively simple to repair. First, check the battery. It can be replaced at a large retailer or at a hardware store that sells automotive batteries. If the problem isn't the battery, it might be a problem with worn out contacts within the fob that block it from communicating with the receiver in the vehicle. These are typically made of a rubber-like substance and coated with an electrically conducting film that wears off over time as a result of repeated use. They can be cleaned by removing the fob from its socket and disassembling it. Then, by carefully soldering contacts back into place will make them functional again.
In some instances all that is required is to reprogram the fob in order to reconnect it with the car's transmitter. You'll find the instructions in your owner's manual, or by searching online for your model of car. If you're unable to locate the correct instructions for the car model you have then a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in your type of vehicle should be able help.
Certain vehicles, especially older ones with less sophisticated security systems, allow their owners to purchase replacement fobs from specialized retailers or online vendors, and then follow a simple procedure to program them. This is a cost-effective alternative to going to the dealer, but it's important to keep in mind that this method only works for cars that don't require special security protocols to activate. According to CR, Audi and Subaru dealers cannot use aftermarket keys to reprogram cars with digital encryption.
It's also worth noting that some key fobs from aftermarket sources aren't easy or even impossible to program with your vehicle. As such some dealers aren't willing to work with fobs from aftermarket and will only accept a brand new one from the manufacturer.
Bluetooth Key Trackers
A Bluetooth tracker, also known as keyfinder, is a small device that you can attach to your belongings such as your keys or wallet. The app you install on your phone will keep a connection to the tracker as long as the tracker is within range once you connect it via Bluetooth. If you lose the item, you can trigger it to sound ring by pressing the button on the tracker. You can use the tracking feature of your phone to see a map showing its last location.
Most Bluetooth trackers have batteries that are rechargeable. Based on the model, this could bring convenience to your life as you can keep a device charged and ready at all times to locate items you've lost. However, you'll need to be aware of battery performance since these devices are known to drain the battery faster than regular.
If you are considering purchasing a Bluetooth tracker, you must also think about whether it is encrypted to protect the location data. Some companies don't therefore you could be at risk if the company gets hacked and your information is leaked. Luckily, most manufacturers do encrypt this data. However, you should read the fine print before purchasing a product. The information you provide could be used by a criminal to gain access to your car or home.